NEVER LET BLACK TIE BE BORING

women get to indulge a wide choice of pretty ballgowns, handbags and sharp shoes to match – and that is before they get to the jewelry box of glittering pieces to add on. BUT FOR MEN, Formal events can often be a boring sartorial proposition

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For men it just seems to be a mundane repetition of the same old black and white combination with perhaps a half-hearted addition cufflinks from two Christmas’ ago that are only worn at events exactly like these.

We think this can improved on with some strategic accessorisation between the four major ‘zones’ described below.

BEYOND THE BOW

Starting at the neck, in zone one, the standard bow tie affords little in the way of customisation. However, a cravat opens up a whole new world of choices. Not only can it be tied in several different way but it can become the focal point of an outfit with the simple addition of a pin.

Damian By Mischelle spider pin, set with 18K white gold, enamel and diamonds

PIN IT ON THE LAPEL

Moving down the jacket, to zone two, if the bow tie has to stay the pin can simply be moved to the lapel. One or two, depending on the design, can be used to add a dash of colour or subtle sparkle to break the black silhouette.

We have a particular penchant for the spider pins because we can mix not only colours but also textures, switching between cabochon stones and enamel as the mood takes.

For a more roguish take on things, the Skull DJ pins are tough to beat.

MAKE IT AN EVENT RING

Zone three is the hands. Leaving the wedding ring hand alone for now, an event worthy ring on the other hand is often the right play to overcome the abject conformity of a bow tie.

Damian By Mischelle ring, set with 18K white gold, ostrich leather and diamond

Respecting the black and white tradition, pretty much any design in gold, or black or white diamonds will work. For any multiple ring wearing scenario, we always favour asymmetry. So the event ring can sit happily on either the index or the pinkie finger.

Damian By Mischelle ring, set with 18K white gold, ostrich leather and diamonds. Damian By Mischelle cufflinks, set with 18K white gold, blue sapphires and diamonds

To see more thoughts on wearing multiple rings check out a previous blog here.

SHOE SKULLS MAKE THE MAN

And finally we reach zone four. If pins and rings are a step too far then just look down. Shoe skulls are a discrete but perfect level of detailing to add to any pair of shoes. These can be worn either as a pair on one shoe or divided between the two. Maybe only you will know that you are wearing them, maybe not. But it is the feeling special that counts.